Posted By admin On October 31, 2013 @ 12:01 pm In City of Commerce,Eastern Group Publications/EGPNews,Editorial & Opinion | No Comments

In the editorial “Recalls Rarely Productive…”, I do agree that “it is so critical for voters to get to know the candidates running for office.” But is that enough? Unfortunately, candidates make statements in campaigns that do not always turn into actions once elected. Therefore, voters have the right to a recall process.

I disagree with your statements regarding recalls. You may have an OPINION about recalls, but my statements regarding a recall will be based on what the California Constitution states about a recall.

It is the electorates’ prerogative to conduct a recall anytime (after the required waiting period) for any reason they desire.

Article 2 in the California Constitution provides all the information needed for “Voting, Initiate and Referendum, and Recall.”

Section 1: “All political power is inherent in the people. Government is instituted for their protection, security, and benefit, and they have the right to alter or reform it when the public good may require.”

Section 13: “Recall is the power of the electors to remove an elective office.”

The Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk in their guide to recalls, section 2 states “Neither the California Constitution nor the Elections Code states under what circumstances a recall is justified.” Also stated is “the statement and answer are intended solely for the information of the voters. No insufficiency in form or substance thereof shall affect the validity of the election proceedings.” The information on the petition and the response does not have to legally be verified; statements can be true or not, it is the voter’s decision to verify if the statements are true or false.

Easily translating the above: it does not matter the reason why voters want an elected official out of office, it is the right of the voter to conduct a recall!

Everyone is entitled to opinions; however, we do have legal guidance from the California Constitution and the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk.

Voters need to decide if they will make a decision based on someone’s opinion and campaign statements or if they will do what they have a right to do according to the law!

The voters must decide, but they cannot continue to be deceived by the media nor elected officials about their rights and the rules regarding elections, including recalls.

Although the voters have the right to initiate a recall, they should consider the issues – are the issues relevant to the current climate in the city? Are the accusations based on personal issues or issues that will impact the residents? Will the issues make a difference in the city?

What are the important issues? How will addressing these issues move the city forward to ensure we continue to provide the best services and programs to the residents of Commerce?

As I stated in a public meeting and will continue to reiterate: The voters need to decide who they want to represent and serve them in the City of Commerce!

Denise Robles is a member of the Commerce City Council. Sources: leginfo.ca.gov and lavote.net guide to recall.